Powell sees US diplomatic successes, mum on future

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2003

WASHINGTON (AFP) — Secretary of State Colin Powell cited successes in US diplomacy towards China, Russia and Europe in a newspaper interview but kept mum about whether he will stay on his post.

The New York Times quoted Powell aides describing former secretary of state James Baker, who is the administration's special envoy on Iraqi debt relief, as a potential rival for the post.

"I think we have managed China, Russia and Europe rather well if you look at where we are at the end of the year since the beginning of the year," Powell told the New York Times.

He refused to comment on whether he plans to resign or continue in the administration of President George W. Bush, should he be re-elected in November.

"When you have a story like the Iraq story,...